Earn to Learn FL (ETLFL), a matched-savings financial assistance program, has been selected to compete in GuideWell’s Growing Resilient Communities West Florida Pitch Competition on September 30th. The challenge is targeted to entrepreneurs, nonprofits, social innovators, and grassroots organizations. It is focused on sourcing innovative approaches that empower community residents to be actively involved in developing their neighborhood’s long-term resiliency.
Applicants were competitively selected to present in one of four virtual regional pitch events. The top three finalists from each region will each receive $5,000 in funding and will be invited to the statewide challenge for a chance to win a $40,000 grand prize.
ETLF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to empower income-challenged students to complete college. ETLF’s Near Peer Coaching for Postsecondary Success program is the focus of this competition.
“A funding award from this challenge will be used to enhance our Near to Peer program and help additional students pursue their dream of completing a postsecondary education with little or no debt,” said Brenda Tate, CEO of Earn to Learn FL.
In 2020, ETLFL secured an AmeriCorps grant to launch Near Peer Coaching for Postsecondary Success. ETLFL trains Near Peer Coaches to guide participating students in the areas of postsecondary access, personal finance training, and career planning. The program targets economically disadvantaged students in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, Lee, and Collier Counties, with plans to expand to other counties.
GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell) is a not-for-profit mutual holding company, and the parent to a family of forward-thinking companies focused on transforming health care. The GuideWell organization includes Florida Blue, the leading health insurance company in Florida;
Earn to Learn FL empowers low-to-moderate income students in Florida to earn college degrees and professional certifications with little or no debt through matched savings, personalized financial capability training, and success coaching. In addition, eligible students who establish a habit of saving for higher education can receive matching funds for financial assistance provided by Earn to Learn FL supporters committed to enhancing workforce development and the economic well-being of Florida communities.
For more information, please visit EarntoLearnFL.org, or email Brenda Tate at Brenda@EarntoLearnFL.org